FM expected to tab Jaffe chief

Ira Jaffe is expected to be named today as the president of Famous Music, the music publishing arm of Paramount Pictures.

Jaffe, formerly based at music publisher NEM Entertainment, will be reunited once again with Famous Music chairman/CEO Irwin Robinson, who tapped him as president of EMI Music Publishing North America in 1988 after working with Jaffe at Chappell/Intersong Music USA.

Bob Fead, the current Famous Music president, confirmed that Friday was his last day at the company. “It’s just time to move on,” he said. Asked if Jaffe would be his replacement, Fead said he “wouldn’t be surprised,” adding, “Ira will do a good job.” Fead said he remains friendly with Robinson.

A Paramount spokesman could not be reached for comment. Jaffe did not return a phone call to NEM Entertainment.

Next move still open

Fead, whose career includes a stint as president of Pacific Arts Video, division VP at RCA Records and senior VP at A&M Records, said he was not sure of his next step, but noted, “I’m one of those people who love to go to work. I will stay in the business. I’m assessing the opportunities on my plate right now.”

Robinson was appointed to the newly created position of chairman/CEO six months ago (Daily Variety, May 11). He was formerly president and chief operating officer of EMI Music Publishing Worldwide and president of the Chappell/Intersong Music Group USA, part of the Polygram Music Publishing division.